Are you tired of watching your water bill skyrocket every summer while still struggling to keep your lawn green in Denver’s challenging climate? You’re not alone. With increasing water restrictions and Colorado’s naturally dry conditions, Denver homeowners are seeking smarter, more affordable ways to maintain beautiful outdoor spaces without the constant battle against nature.
Xeriscape Landscaping – a landscaping approach specifically designed for arid environments that uses drought-resistant, native plants to create stunning, low-maintenance yards that thrive in our unique Colorado climate. This isn’t about replacing your grass with rocks and cacti, modern Xeriscaping creates vibrant, colorful landscapes that reflect Colorado’s natural beauty while dramatically reducing water usage.
At Mile High Lifescape, we’ve spent over two decades perfecting the art of affordable, beautiful xeriscaping for Denver homes of all sizes. Our locally-owned team understands the unique challenges of Front Yard landscaping and delivers custom solutions that save you money, increase your property value, and contribute to a more sustainable Colorado – all while creating an outdoor space you’ll love.
What is Xeriscaping and Why It Matters in Denver?
Xeriscaping (pronounced “zeer-i-scaping”) comes from the Greek word “xeros,” meaning dry, combined with landscaping. Developed in Colorado during the drought years of the early 1980s, this approach isn’t just a landscaping style—it’s a comprehensive philosophy built on efficiency, sustainability, and beauty. While traditional landscaping often fights against the local climate, xeriscaping works in harmony with it, using smart design and appropriate plant selection to create landscapes that thrive naturally in their environment.
The Colorado State University Extension Office outlines seven core principles that guide effective xeriscaping:
- Planning & Design: Creating thoughtful zones based on water needs and usage patterns
- Soil Improvement: Enhancing soil structure for better root development and water retention
- Efficient Irrigation: Using targeted watering systems that deliver precisely what plants need
- Plant Selection: Choosing native and adapted plants that naturally thrive in our climate
- Mulching: Reducing evaporation and suppressing weeds with appropriate ground covers
- Reduced Turf Areas: Limiting high-water grass to functional spaces
- Appropriate Maintenance: Following sustainable care practices that preserve resources
Why It Works in Denver, Colorado?
Denver’s semi-arid climate, with its average of just 15 inches of precipitation annually, makes traditional lush lawns an uphill battle. Factor in Colorado’s increasingly frequent drought conditions and ever-rising water costs (Denver Water rates have increased by over 30% in the past decade), and xeriscaping becomes not just environmentally responsible but economically essential for homeowners. Our region’s unique soil composition, intense sun exposure, and dramatic temperature fluctuations create challenges that xeriscaping specifically addresses.
Xeriscaping in Colorado isn’t about creating a barren, rocky landscape—it’s about embracing the rich diversity of plants that evolved to thrive here. Blue grama grass, yarrow, Rocky Mountain penstemon, Russian sage, and butterfly milkweed represent just a few of the hundreds of beautiful native and adapted plants that create colorful, textured landscapes while requiring minimal supplemental water.
Communities across the Front Range have embraced xeriscaping with impressive results. The Denver Water Authority reports that properties with professionally designed xeriscaped yards use 50-75% less water than traditional landscapes. From the urban neighborhoods of central Denver to the suburban communities of Highlands Ranch, Arvada, and beyond, xeriscaped properties stand out for their distinctive beauty and resilience during drought periods.
Why Choose Mile High Lifescape for Xeriscape Landscaping?
Experience that Shows
Since 2003, Mile High Lifescape has specialized in creating sustainable, low-water landscapes throughout the Denver Metro area. Our team brings over 20 years of specific xeriscape expertise, with certified landscape professionals who understand not just the plants but the complex interplay between Denver’s climate, soil conditions, and microclimates. We’ve completed over 500 xeriscape transformations across the Front Range, from small urban yards to multi-acre suburban properties.
Customization is Our Standard
“When Mile High Lifescape designed our yard, they didn’t just offer a cookie-cutter solution. They took the time to understand how we use our space and created zones that perfectly match our lifestyle.” – Sarah M., Centennial
No two properties—or homeowners—are alike. That’s why our design process begins with understanding your aesthetic preferences, budget constraints, and how you actually use your outdoor space. Whether you’re seeking a contemporary minimalist design, a colorful cottage garden effect, or a natural mountain-inspired landscape, we tailor every element to create a space that feels uniquely yours while respecting Colorado’s natural conditions.
Eco-Conscious Approach
Our commitment to environmental stewardship goes beyond simply reducing water usage. We carefully select plants that support local pollinators and wildlife, use organic soil amendments whenever possible, and implement smart irrigation technologies that respond to actual weather conditions rather than fixed schedules. Our installation practices minimize soil disruption and protect existing trees and beneficial organisms that contribute to a healthy ecosystem.
Trust and Quality
With a 97% customer satisfaction rating and a portfolio filled with long-term clients who return for additional phases of work, Mile High Lifescape has built a reputation for reliability and excellence. We prioritize clear communication throughout the process, provide detailed written proposals with no hidden costs, and stand behind our installations with comprehensive plant guarantees.
See what a difference professional xeriscaping can make for your Denver property by scheduling your free consultation today.
Xeriscape Services We Offer
Design & Planning
- Comprehensive Site Evaluation: Analysis of sun exposure, drainage patterns, soil conditions, and existing features
- Custom Design Creation: Professional landscape plans that balance aesthetic desires with practical water-saving strategies
- 3D Visualization: Digital mockups that help you envision the finished landscape before installation begins
- Phased Implementation Planning: Strategic approaches for completing larger projects over time to fit your budget
Plant Selection & Installation
- Native Plant Packages: Carefully curated combinations of Colorado-native plants that naturally thrive together
- Drought-Tolerant Perennial Gardens: Beautiful flowering plants that return year after year with minimal care
- Ornamental Grasses: Movement, texture, and year-round interest with minimal water requirements
- Seasonal Color Planning: Strategic design for continuous visual interest through all four seasons
- Tree & Shrub Installation: Structural elements that provide shade, privacy, and habitat while using less water than turf
Irrigation Solutions
- High-Efficiency Drip Systems: Precise water delivery directly to plant roots to eliminate waste
- Smart Controller Installation: Weather-responsive systems that automatically adjust to rainfall and temperature
- Rainwater Harvesting Setup: Legal collection systems that maximize Colorado’s precipitation
- Irrigation Conversion: Transforming existing sprinkler systems into water-efficient solutions
- Zoned Watering Design: Strategic grouping of plants by water needs for optimal efficiency
Hardscape Features
- Permeable Patios & Walkways: Beautiful gathering spaces that allow water infiltration
- Decorative Rock Gardens: Low-maintenance focal points with year-round appeal
- Dry Creek Beds: Functional drainage solutions that double as landscape features
- Boulder Placement: Natural-looking accents that provide structure and Colorado character
- Retaining Walls: Terracing solutions for sloped properties that enhance usable space
Finishing Touches
- Energy-Efficient Landscape Lighting: Solar and LED options that highlight your landscape’s best features
- Outdoor Living Elements: Fire pits, seating areas, and shade structures integrated into water-wise designs
- Garden Art Installation: Custom metal work, sculpture placement, and decorative elements
- Edging & Borders: Clean transitions between different landscape zones
- Sustainable Mulch Application: Recycled materials that suppress weeds and retain soil moisture
How Much Do Xeriscape Landscaping Services Cost in Denver?
The cost of xeriscaping a Denver property depends on several key factors: the size of your yard, existing conditions that may need correction, design complexity, material selections, and whether you’re converting an existing landscape or starting from scratch. While the upfront investment may be comparable to traditional landscaping, the long-term savings make xeriscaping the more affordable option over time.
Mile High Lifescape provides customized quotes based on your specific property and goals, but these general ranges can help with initial planning:
- Front Yard Transformation (500-800 sq. ft): $3,000-$6,000
- Backyard Redesign (800-1,200 sq. ft): $5,000-$9,000
- Full Property Xeriscape (typical suburban lot): $8,000-$15,000+
- Design-Only Services: Starting at $750 for DIY implementation
- Phased Installation: Typically 10-15% savings over complete installation
The real financial benefit of xeriscaping comes from ongoing savings. Denver properties with professional xeriscaping typically see:
- Water Bill Reduction: 50-75% decrease in outdoor water usage
- Maintenance Savings: 30-60% reduction in maintenance costs (reduced mowing, fertilizing, and replacement costs)
- Property Value Increase: According to local real estate analysis, well-designed xeriscaped properties can command 5-15% higher selling prices in Denver’s competitive market
To make xeriscaping more accessible, Mile High Lifescape offers:
- Interest-free payment plans for projects over $5,000
- Phased implementation scheduling
- Partnership with local credit unions offering landscape improvement loans
|
Feature |
Traditional Lawn |
Xeriscaped Yard |
| Initial Installation Cost | $4,000-$10,000 | $5,000-$15,000 |
| Annual Water Usage | 45,000-60,000 gallons | 10,000-20,000 gallons |
| Annual Water Cost (approx.) | $500-$700 | $125-$250 |
| Maintenance Hours/Month | 8-12 hours | 2-4 hours |
| Annual Maintenance Cost | $800-$1,500 | $200-$500 |
| 5-Year Total Ownership Cost | $8,500-$17,000 | $6,000-$12,500 |
| Drought Resilience | Poor | Excellent |
| Environmental Impact | High resource consumption | Low resource consumption |
Comparison Table: Traditional Landscaping vs. Xeriscaping
Xeriscaping Landscape Design Process at Mile High Lifescape
1. Free Consultation
Your xeriscape journey begins with a complimentary on-site visit from one of our landscape designers. During this 60-90 minute meeting, we’ll walk your property, discuss your vision and budget, answer questions, and begin formulating initial concepts. We’ll analyze sun patterns, existing vegetation, drainage issues, and soil conditions to inform our recommendations.
2. Custom Design
Based on our consultation, we create a detailed xeriscape plan tailored to your property. This includes:
- Scaled drawings showing plant locations and hardscape elements
- 3D digital visualizations of key viewpoints
- Comprehensive plant list with growth specifications
- Material selections with samples
- Detailed cost estimates broken down by project areas Design presentation happens either in-person or via video conference, with opportunity for revisions until the plan perfectly aligns with your vision.
3. Installation
Our experienced installation team brings your design to life with meticulous attention to detail:
- Site preparation and grading
- Irrigation system installation or conversion
- Hardscape construction
- Soil amendment based on test results
- Plant placement and installation
- Mulch application Throughout installation, a dedicated project manager oversees the work and serves as your point of contact for questions or concerns.
4. Final Walkthrough
Once installation is complete, we conduct a comprehensive review of your new landscape:
- Irrigation system demonstration and programming
- Plant identification and care instructions
- Seasonal maintenance calendar
- Warranty documentation
- Future phasing recommendations (if applicable)
5. Follow-Up Support
Our relationship continues after installation with:
- 30-day, 6-month, and 1-year checkup visits
- Plant establishment support during the critical first year
- Seasonal maintenance services (optional)
- Access to our client education resources
Xeriscape Projects by Mile High Lifescape
Park Hill Transformation: Urban Oasis
Client’s Challenge: A century-old Denver home with a struggling lawn, mature trees that created challenging shade patterns, and water bills exceeding $200 monthly during summer.
Our Solution: A thoughtfully designed landscape featuring shade-tolerant native groundcovers beneath existing trees, strategically placed ornamental grasses for privacy screening, and a central gathering area with permeable pavers surrounded by drought-resistant flowering perennials.
Results: A 68% reduction in water usage, virtually eliminated weekly maintenance, and a distinctive landscape that has become a neighborhood showcase. The property’s curb appeal dramatically increased, with several neighbors subsequently requesting similar transformations.
“Our yard used to be an embarrassment during water restrictions when we couldn’t keep the grass green. Now it’s beautiful year-round, and we spend more time enjoying it instead of maintaining it.” – James and Elaine T., Park Hill
Highlands Ranch Family-Friendly Xeriscape
Client’s Challenge: A south-facing, sloped backyard that baked in the summer sun, making it unusable for the family’s children and creating irrigation runoff problems.
Our Solution: Terraced the slope with natural stone retaining walls, created level play spaces with low-water buffalo grass, installed a dry creek bed for proper drainage during heavy rains, and surrounded the area with colorful, pollinator-friendly perennial beds irrigated by high-efficiency drip lines.
Results: A beautiful, functional family space that thrives with 65% less water than the original landscape, while providing habitat for butterflies and birds that delight the children. The previously unused backyard has become the family’s favorite gathering space.
Wheat Ridge Senior-Friendly Design
Client’s Challenge: Retired homeowners who could no longer manage the physical demands of their traditional landscape but wanted to maintain an attractive garden while respecting water conservation needs.
Our Solution: A low-maintenance design featuring raised planting beds for easier access, a simplified irrigation system with smart controls, decomposed granite pathways for stable footing, and a carefully curated selection of drought-tolerant plants that provide year-round interest with minimal pruning requirements.
Results: A reduction in maintenance time from 10+ hours weekly to less than 2 hours monthly, a 70% decrease in water usage, and an accessible landscape that the homeowners can continue to enjoy independently.
“Mile High Lifescape understood exactly what we needed at this stage of our lives. They created a beautiful landscape that we can actually maintain ourselves, and our water bills have never been lower.” – Robert and Margaret L., Wheat Ridge
Conclusion
Denver’s climate presents unique challenges for homeowners, but with Mile High Lifescape’s affordable xeriscaping services, these challenges become opportunities to create something truly special. By embracing a landscape approach specifically designed for our region, you’re not just saving money on water bills and maintenance—you’re creating a resilient, beautiful outdoor space that connects you to Colorado’s natural heritage.
Our experienced team brings passion, creativity, and technical expertise to every project, whether you’re looking to transform a small urban yard or redesign acres of suburban property. We handle every step of the process with professionalism and attention to detail, from the initial consultation through the final walkthrough and beyond.
The journey to a more sustainable, beautiful landscape begins with a single conversation. Contact Mile High Lifescape today for your free consultation and discover how affordable xeriscaping can transform your Denver property into a low-water oasis that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How affordable is xeriscaping compared to traditional landscaping?
While the initial installation cost of xeriscaping may be 10-20% higher than traditional landscaping, the long-term economics strongly favor xeriscaping. Denver homeowners typically recoup their investment within 3-5 years through reduced water bills (50-75% savings), lower maintenance costs (30-60% reduction), and decreased plant replacement expenses. Additionally, Denver Water offers rebates of up to $2 per square foot for turf replacement with water-wise landscaping, further offsetting initial costs.
What kinds of plants work best for xeriscaping in Colorado?
Colorado’s native plants naturally thrive in our climate and provide the best foundation for successful xeriscaping. Popular choices include:
- Flowering Perennials: Rocky Mountain penstemon, sulphur flower, prairie coneflower, chocolate flower, blanketflower
- Ornamental Grasses: Blue grama, little bluestem, feather reed grass, buffalo grass
- Shrubs: Apache plume, fernbush, rabbitbrush, mountain mahogany, western sand cherry
- Groundcovers: Kinnikinnick, pussytoes, creeping potentilla, Prairie Zinnia
- Succulents: Yucca, agave, hardy ice plants, sedum
Mile High Lifescape selects specific varieties based on your property’s microclimate, soil conditions, and aesthetic preferences.
How long does the average xeriscape project take?
Project timeline depends on scope and complexity, but typical timeframes include:
- Design Phase: 2-3 weeks from initial consultation to final design approval
- Small Front Yard Installation: 3-5 working days
- Complete Property Transformation: 2-4 weeks
- Best Timing: Spring and fall installations provide optimal establishment conditions, but our team works year-round with appropriate seasonal adjustments
Can I still have green plants or flowers with xeriscaping?
Absolutely! This is perhaps the biggest misconception about xeriscaping. A professionally designed xeriscape features abundant greenery and colorful blooms throughout the growing season. The difference is in plant selection—choosing species that deliver visual impact without excessive water requirements. We design xeriscapes with strategic “oasis zones” where more water-intensive plants create lush focal points while the overall landscape remains water-efficient.
Do I need a design first, or can you just install it for me?
Mile High Lifescape offers flexible service options:
- Full-Service Solution: Most clients choose our comprehensive design-build approach for seamless project execution.
- Design-Only: If you’re a DIY enthusiast or want to implement in phases, we can provide detailed plans for self-installation.
- Installation-Only: If you already have a landscape design from another source, we can provide installation services.
- Consultation Services: For homeowners who want expert guidance but plan to manage their own project.
Regardless of approach, we strongly recommend starting with at least a basic design to ensure water-use zones are properly planned and plants are appropriately grouped—these fundamental xeriscaping principles are difficult to implement without proper planning.
